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Omeprazole: Uses and Side Effects

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on

Omeprazole is one of the most popular and well-known drugs among those patients who suffer from various gastric conditions, which has generalized its use and abuse causing many specialists to have pronounced on the importance of not ingesting it without prior medical recommendation and always under a fixed-term treatment. But what are its main uses and what side effects should we be aware of? In this FastlyHealarticle we explain in detail the uses and side effects of Omeprazole , as well as the indications for taking this product.

Uses of Omeprazole In which cases to take it?

Being clear about what Omeprazole is for is very important to make proper use of this medicine. This capsule is prescribed for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux , a condition that occurs when the contents of our stomach escapes involuntarily and rises to the esophagus, causing an intense sensation of acidity and causing damage in this area.

Because it has the ability to inhibit stomach acid , this drug is used to treat conditions that increase the production of acids in the stomach, for the treatment of stomach and intestinal ulcers, and for the treatment of patients with frequent heartburn. that is, those who experience 2 or more episodes a week.

What to consider before taking Omeprazole?

Although Omeprazole is an over-the-counter drug and is frequently taken, it is important to take into account some recommendations before starting its intake :

  • Before ingesting this medication, you should inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any particular compound or medication.
  • It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any medication, vitamin, or supplement. This is especially important if you take antibiotics, blood thinners, pain relievers, diuretics, and any prescription or non-prescription products.
  • It is important to consult a specialist before taking Omeprazole if you have liver problems.

This drug should not be taken preventively , nor should it be ingested for the immediate treatment of heartburn, as its effect is not immediately perceived as occurs with antacids. Its consumption in high doses and for long periods of time can increase the risk of suffering fractures, especially in the case of the elderly or people at risk of suffering from osteoporosis .

Provided that indicated doses are used and under medical supervision, this medicine has not been shown to affect pregnant women, the fetus or the baby during lactation, so it can be consumed during these stages.

How to take Omeprazole?

Omeprazole can be purchased as delayed-release capsules, delayed-release granules, or as a suspension to mix with liquid. Usually its intake is 1 capsule on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before eating, depending on the condition to be treated, you can take 2 capsules a day always before meals. Only a doctor will be able to tell you the milligrams you should ingest daily and the treatment time depending on the condition you want to treat.

It is important to swallow the capsules whole , without breaking, crushing or chewing them, preferably with a little water. In the case of the powder presentation, it must be mixed with water for intake, the mixture must be consumed in the first 30 minutes after it has been prepared.

It is important that if you take Omeprazole without a prescription, you do not take it for more than 14 days, nor do you take it without a prescription more often than once every 4 months. If you suffer from any kind of discomfort, it is preferable to consult a gastroenterologist before self-medicating. Remember to finish the treatment indicated by your doctor even if you feel fine, if after 2 weeks of prescribed treatment you do not see results, then consult your doctor.

Omeprazole side effects

The most common side effects of Omeprazole are:

  • Headache.
  • Constipation.
  • Nausea and / or vomiting.
  • Gases.
  • Stomach ache.
  • Diarrhea.

Although less common, there are some serious side effects such as:

  • Signs on the skin that cause itching.
  • Swelling in different parts of the body such as the tongue, face, hands or feet.
  • Difficulty to swallow.
  • Changes in your heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Spasms
  • Fever.
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Seizures

In the event that any of these signs appear, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Omeprazole: uses and side effects , we recommend that you enter our category of Medication and medical tests .

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